Summary

Lymphadenopathy is defined as lymph nodes that are abnormal in size, consistency or number. The extent of lymphadenopathy is defined as localised, regional or generalised. Lymphadenopathy is commonly encountered by physicians in clinical practice and requires a comprehensive evaluation. When initiating a work-up, the physician should pay close attention to the size, location, consistency and number of enlarged lymph nodes, as well as to the patient's age and any associated symptoms. Lymphadenopathy may be due to malignancy, hypersensitivity, infection, collagen vascular disease, atypical lymphoproliferative disorders, granulomatous diseases and other miscellaneous causes.
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